Requirements for Community Development Grants
- Project must enhance the Kalispell community and visitor experience and be a physical project/enhancement. Marketing or promotional projects are not eligible.
- Grants will be awarded on a 50:50 matching basis.
- In-kind services are not eligible to be matched.
- At least 50% of the costs of the project shall be financed by the applicant. Administrative and/or organization’s operational costs are not eligible expenses.
- Project must be located in Kalispell.
- Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, tribal government, government agencies.
- Funds may not be used for major construction, utilities or underground infrastructure.
- Discover Kalispell must be listed as a key sponsor in collateral materials, news releases and other media.
Grant funds are available to local organizations and individuals who have a vision for a project to add to the community’s amenities such as cultural, wayfinding, historical, or outdoor features. Examples include murals or other public art, visitor kiosks, interpretive signage, bike service stations, apps showcasing our trail system, art installations or other amenities.
Application Process and Selection Criteria
- The grant applicant or representative will attend a regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Board of Directors to present information on the application and be available for any questions.
- The application will be evaluated and scored by the Board of Directors.
(See Below: Visitor Development Grant Scoring System) - Fully completed applications are usually reviewed by the Board of Directors within a two month period depending on time of submission and the Board of Directors meeting schedule.
- Notice of award will be provided by Discover Kalispell following a vote by the Board of Directors.
Community Development Grant Scoring System
| Project Plan and Viability | 20 |
| Project Budget | 20 |
| Alignment of Project with Discover Kalispell Brand | 15 |
| Appeal to Kalispell Tourism Market | 15 |
| Enhancement of Kalispell’s Community Amenities | 10 |
| Project Timeline | 10 |
| Other Partners / Sponsorships | 10 |
| Total Points | 100 |
Post-Project Requirements
Grants Under $1,000
- A written follow-up report including photos, demonstration, or other documentation after the project has been completed. The report form will be be provided by Discover Kalispell.
Grants of $1,000 or more
- Discover Kalispell must be recognized as a sponsor in project collateral and media.
- A post-project presentation to the Discover Kalispell Board of Directors at a regularly scheduled meeting.
- A written follow-up report including photos, demonstration, or other documentation after the project has been completed must be submitted. Report form will be provided by Discover Kalispell.
DISBURSEMENT OF GRANT FUNDS and Post-Project Requirements
Grants Under $1,000
25% of funds will be retained until the project has been completed and the post-project report has been received from applicant. Funds will be dispersed within 15 days after receipt of invoice submitted by the applicant.
Grants of $1,000 or more
No funds will be disbursed until applicant shows that Discover Kalispell is recognized as a sponsor in project collateral and/or media. 50% of the funds will be retained until the post-project presentation and report are completed. Funds will be dispersed within 15 days after receipt of invoice submitted by the applicant.
